Historic village building up for award after refurbishment

Apple Tree Farmhouse has been praised for its conservation standards following a major refurbishment.

The grade II listed building on Dog Kennel Lane in Chorleywood has made the shortlist in the 2018 Hertfordshire Building Futures Awards.

The Farmhouse is a finalist in the Retrofit for the Future category awards which recognises exceptional buildings and sustainable developments across Hertfordshire.

Winning schemes will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on 4 October at Knebworth House.

Apple Tree Farmhouse has undergone an extensive four year redevelopment under the watchful eye of designer Roger Mears Architects and the building has now been given a new lease of life.

Medieval features were uncovered whilst using like-for-like repairs wherever possible and environmental conditions were improved at every opportunity. This includes a 30 per cent reduction in energy bills achieved by using sheep wool insulation.

The result is a beautiful and comfortable building with carefully conserved areas that will be enjoyed by future generation.

Now in its tenth year, the biennial Awards, hosted by the Building Futures Partnership, celebrate sustainability, innovation and design excellence in Hertfordshire.

Dr David Strong, from the judging panel, said: “Many of the entries this year have gone beyond a focus on energy efficiency, to incorporate other aspects of good design and sustainability in a more holistic way.

“Clearly the energy performance of a building remains of vital importance, however, other broader social and economic factors also require careful consideration.”